Replace roof shingles

Replacing shingles on a roof can be risky business, especially if you’re afraid of heights and working on a ladder. And if you have to crawl around up there to do the job, safe footing can be more of a challenge. But don’t ignore the repair because a roof leak gets worse, making it a more costly job in the future.

You’ll pay a handyman service them $195, which includes the labor and material, to fix a few broken or missing asphalt shingles. You can buy the shingles, do the job yourself for $45 and save 77 percent. You’ll need a ladder, replacement shingles to match the existing ones (which you may have to order), roofing cement and nails. For tools, you’ll need a hammer, putty knife and pry bar.

If you decide to do it yourself, play it safe. Secure the ladder firmly on the ground and wear rubber-soled shoes for sure footing on the roof. Try to schedule the project when the weather is cool and overcast, so you’re not working in the hot sun or severe cold. And it’s nice to have a partner on the ground to hold the ladder and be a gofer.

If there’s any doubt about doing it yourself, hire a roofing contractor.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Pro Cost -- DIY Cost -- Pro time -- DIY Time -- DIY Savings -- Percent Saved

$195 -- $45 -- 2.1 -- 4.0 -- $150 -- 77 Percent

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